Targeting Receptor Tyrosine Kinases Using Monoclonal Antibodies: The Most Specific Tools for Targeted-Based Cancer Therapy

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) family is comprised of different cell surface glycoproteins. These enzymes participate in and regulate vital processes such as cell proliferation, polarity, differentiation, cell to cell interactions, signaling, and cell survival. Dysregulation of RTKs contributes to the development of different types of tumors. RTKs deregulation in different types of cancer has been reported for more than 30 RTKs. Due to their critical roles, the specific targeting of RTKs in malignancies is a promising approach. Targeted cellular and molecular therapies (personalized medicine) have been known as new types of therapeutics, which prevent tumor cell proliferation and invasion by interfering with molecules essential for tumor growth and survival. Specific targeting of RTKs using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in malignancies as well as in autoimmune disorders is of great interest. The growing number of mAbs approved by the authorities implies on the increasing attentions and applications of these therapeutic tools. Due to the high specificity, mAbs are the most promising substances that target RTKs expressed on the tumor cell surface. In this communication, we review the recent progresses in the development of mAbs targeting oncogenic RTKs for cancer treatment.